Chapter 163: Journey to South - Rebirth of the Noble Daughter

 Chapter 163: Journey to South

While everyone’s attention was on the Bai family, a group of seven or eight people quietly headed towards the Zhejiang region. Leading them was none other than Feng Jinxu, who was supposed to be resting at home.

Following him were Fu Yi and another unfamiliar face sent by the Bai family.

Despite his unfamiliarity, his imposing demeanor was extraordinary. Though he spoke little, he was extremely vigilant, missing nothing of the movements around them.

They had disguised themselves as merchants traveling south to trade silk.

After several days, Fu Yi couldn’t stand the silence from Xu Lin and finally spoke up.

“Xu Lin, there’s no need to be so tense. I’ve traveled with the young master to many places. If you stay this stiff, people will easily see through us. Relax, and treat this as a pleasure trip.”

Fu Yi tried to 'advise' him, but it was like talking to a wall. Xu Lin remained silent.

Feng Jinxu, however, was curious about his background. For some reason, he felt Xu Lin must have been hidden away for a long time. His aura was too dark and heavy to be from the Bai family.

At noon, while the group rested on a warm patch of ground, Feng Jinxu approached Xu Lin and addressed him softly, "Young Master."

Away from home, they couldn’t call him Lord Feng openly. Since Xu Lin was sent by the Bai family, calling him 'Young Master' was acceptable.

Feng Jinxu acknowledged with a “Hmm” and handed him some dried beef. Xu Lin sniffed it before tearing into it like a wild tiger, exuding a rough, primal energy.

“Are you a soldier?”

Xu Lin was startled by Feng Jinxu’s question but quickly masked it, remaining silent.

“I’ve been watching you these past few days. Your sharp senses, skilled martial arts, strict adherence to orders, and systematic night watch arrangements—all indicate military training. Your skill in scouting terrain is also well-practiced. It’s hard to believe you’re not from the military.”

“Things you need to know will be revealed in due time,” Xu Lin replied flatly. Though he didn’t say it, Feng Jinxu understood the implied message: “Things you don’t need to know, don’t ask.”

The deadly aura Xu Lin exuded was intimidating, reinforcing Feng Jinxu’s suspicion that he had seen battle. But how did the Bai family come to know such a person?

His grandfather had little connection with the military. Apart from his second brother’s close ties with the Su family, they rarely interacted with military families. Who was this mysterious figure?

These questions lingered, but he knew it was futile to expect answers from Xu Lin.

Their mission to Zhejiang was to gather evidence of corruption in the Canal Transport Department—a dangerous task. The Bai family likely sent Xu Lin to protect him.

As for Xu Lin’s mysterious backer, perhaps their true identity would be revealed after this southern journey.

Feng Jinxu sat beside Xu Lin, eating a flatbread and drinking from a copper pot.

Meanwhile, hundreds of miles away at the Feng residence, Feng Jinlin, Feng Yunhe, and Yin Canwen were being seen off. They were returning to the academy and might not return until after the spring exams.

Madam Feng, more concerned for her grandson than even her second son, repeatedly instructed Han Jiang, the attendant.

“Han Jiang, you must take good care of the young master. The mountain is much colder than the capital. Keep several warming pans handy to ensure he sleeps well at night and stays energetic during the day. Have you packed enough clothes? And the bedding? Did you bring the lambskin blankets I sent? They’re very warm. Don’t forget, and…”

“Mother, Yunhe is going to study, not on a winter trip. If you fuss so much, his classmates might tease him,” Feng Jinlin interrupted. “Besides, I’ll be there. We won’t let him freeze.”

“You rascal! I wouldn’t worry if you went shirtless, but Yunhe has just recovered from an illness. I’m naturally more concerned.”

Madam Wen, standing beside Feng Yunli, couldn’t get a word in but had already given her instructions in the courtyard earlier. Letting her mother-in-law speak more now was fine.

“People say a married daughter is like water thrown out, but in our family, it seems a grown son is like grass in the corner—ignored and unloved.”

Feng Jinlin’s words made everyone laugh, dispelling the worries and reluctance.

Feng Jinyao now trusted her second brother completely. With the issue of Princess Changlin resolved, he had a bright future ahead. “I ordered three sets of fine stationery from Beifeng Zhai. They’re in the carriage. Share them as you see fit. I wish you and Brother Yin success in the exams and great honor for our family.”

“I like hearing that, Ah Yao. With your stationery, I’m sure to make the list!”

Yin Canwen warmly replied, “Thank you, Third Miss. I won’t let you all down.”

He dared not speak to her alone, fearing it would harm her reputation. Madam Feng glanced at Feng Jinyao but saw her standing calmly, smiling faintly without responding.

Knowing her daughter well, she realized the feelings were unrequited.

“Let’s go early to arrive early. Your fourth uncle is still taking care of your grandfather. Be respectful to the headmaster and teachers, understood?”

“Don’t worry, Grandmother. I’ll make sure Second Uncle behaves and works hard.” Yunhe replied.

His mature words from a young face made everyone laugh again.

Huanhuan had served Yunhe for a long time and felt sad watching the carriage disappear around the corner. Lamei patted her shoulder in silent comfort.

“Come on. You still have work to do with Sister Xiuqiu. If you cry, she’ll ask what happened.”

“Okay.”

After seeing them off, Feng Jinyao and the others took a carriage to the Bai residence. Despite her second brother’s reassurance that their grandfather was fine, Madam Feng worried and visited daily.

This gave Feng Jinyao a chance to learn why her eldest brother suddenly went south.

As their carriage arrived at the Bai residence, they noticed a familiar carriage with the character 'Xu' prominently displayed.

A servant greeted them, and Feng Jinyao asked, “Is Sister Xu here?”

“Third Miss, you have good eyes. Not only Miss Xu but also Grand Secretary Xu and Madam Xu are here. They’re all in Shou'an Courtyard now.”

📌 To Read The Latest Updates Click 👇👇

▶▶Rebirth of the Noble Daughter  

Next Chapter ▶▶